Jury Selection Begins in Ellsworth Colbert Trial

Because there were not enough jurors to complete the process Tuesday, jury selection is scheduled to continue Wednesday morning in Judge Herbert Dixon’s courtroom.

Colbert, 56, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, and several weapons charges in connection with the stabbing death of 38-year-old Robert Wright.

Prosecutors say that Colbert, brandishing a walking stick and a knife, argued with Wright the morning of March 4, 2012 and punched Wright in the back of his head in a dispute over Wright’s dog’s “mess.” They say Wright then grabbed a shovel and used it to strike Colbert. An autopsy showed that Wright had been stabbed several times.

What is Homicide Watch D.C.?

Homicide Watch is a community-driven reporting project covering every murder in the District of Columbia. Using original reporting, court documents, social media, and the help of victims’ and suspects’ friends, family, neighbors and others, we cover every homicide from crime to conviction. Read more…

Get in Touch

Latest Court Documents

Latest Comments

What is Homicide Watch D.C.?

Homicide Watch is a community-driven reporting project covering every murder in the District of Columbia. Using original reporting, court documents, social media, and the help of victims’ and suspects’ friends, family, neighbors and others, we cover every homicide from crime to conviction. Read more…